Golf Course Architecture - Issue 64, April 2021

42 Miklagard Golf near Oslo, Norway, will reopen in spring following a reconfiguration of its golf course and the construction of new practice facilities. A new hotel is being built on the original practice ground adjacent to the eighteenth hole of the Robert Trent Jones II- designed golf course, which opened in 2001. The RTJ II design team has worked with (re)GOLF’s Christian Lundin and contractor Nelson & Vecchio to create five new holes required as a knock-on effect of the hotel construction. “The new holes are designed to blend seamlessly into the theme and balance of the original holes, while providing players with skilful options for recovery shots around the green complexes,” said Bruce Charlton, president of RTJ II, who also credits course superintendent Stefan Schon as playing a hugely instrumental role in the success of the redesign. “He knows every inch of the land,” said Charlton. Three of the new holes, the ninth, fifteenth and seventeenth, are par threes. The new fourteenth is a 288-yard par four that will entice players to go for the green, while the course now opens with a 375-yard par four with a large bunker in front of the green. The closing hole has two teeing areas allowing it to be played as a par four or five. A stream cuts through the fairway about 100 yards from the green, then runs alongside the right edge of the green, setting up a grandstand finish to the round in view of the new hotel. A new practice area has been built behind the clubhouse, with a driving range, short game and putting areas. The new range is home to Miklagard’s academy and professional services, which include a PGA-trained coaching team, a custom fitting centre and a swing studio with Swing Catalyst and TrackMan Golf technology. “Golfers will immediately appreciate the new practice facilities, coupled with an emphasis on learning and instruction for all levels of player,” said Charlton. “All target greens and surrounds are constructed with synthetic turf, to allow players to practice shots during inclement weather and shoulder seasons without causing damage to the turf.” Miklagard Golf poised to reopen Photo: Robert Trent Jones II TEE BOX